Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Almond Cheddar Appetizers are the perfect balance of crunchy, cheesy, and savory. Made with almond flour for a low-carb alternative, they’re the ideal choice for those following keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. The sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese create a rich, flavorful base, while the garlic and onion powder give them a deliciously seasoned kick. These appetizers are perfect for serving at parties, as a snack, or even as a light meal. Plus, they’re ready in under 40 minutes, making them a perfect weeknight treat or a last-minute addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
¼ cup cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Mix the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, grated sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Form the balls: Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the appetizers are golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cool: Once done, remove the tray from the oven and allow the appetizers to cool for a few minutes.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for an elegant touch before serving.
Serve: Arrange the Almond Cheddar Appetizers on a serving platter and enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10 servings (approximately 1 appetizer per serving)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy version.
Cheese Variations: Swap out the sharp cheddar for other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Nut-Free: If you need a nut-free option, you can try substituting the almond flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Leftover Almond Cheddar Appetizers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: These appetizers freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture will be a little softer.

FAQs

Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time, form the balls, and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This makes them perfect for party prep.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Almond flour works best in this recipe for its low-carb, gluten-free properties. If you don’t have almond flour, you could try using coconut flour, but the texture may change.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack cheese for a different twist on these appetizers.

Are these appetizers suitable for keto or gluten-free diets?

Yes, almond flour is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, making this recipe perfect for both keto and gluten-free diets.

Can I bake these in advance and serve later?

Yes, you can bake these ahead of time and serve them at room temperature, or you can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Can I freeze the mixture?

You can freeze the mixture before baking, but it’s best to form the balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Once frozen, you can bake them directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I know when the appetizers are done?

The appetizers are done when they are golden brown on the outside and slightly puffed. You can test one by cutting it open to make sure it’s firm and the inside is fully set.

Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?

Yes! These appetizers pair perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or even a tangy mustard sauce.

How can I make these more cheesy?

You can increase the amount of cheddar cheese in the mixture or add a layer of melted cheese on top of the balls before serving for a richer cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

These Almond Cheddar Appetizers are an absolute crowd-pleaser, combining rich cheese, savory spices, and a perfect texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a snack, or with a meal, these bite-sized treats will disappear quickly. They’re incredibly easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful appetizers that are as satisfying as they are delicious!

Almond Cheddar Appetizers: An Incredible 5-Star Recipe

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These Almond Cheddar Appetizers are a savory, low-carb treat made with almond flour, sharp cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. Perfect for parties or as a snack, they offer a crispy, cheesy bite that’s sure to impress.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Low Carb, Gluten-Free

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, grated cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Form small balls from the mixture (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the appetizers are golden brown and slightly puffed.
Once done, remove from the oven and cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

These appetizers freeze well. After baking, cool completely, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for a softer texture.

For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 appetizer
Calories: 120
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg